🎙️ Calling all haunt fans and creative minds! 🎙️👻 🎃 Get ready for the thrilling conclusion of our "Behind the Scare" series on the Attractions Group Podcast! This week, host Clete Reinberger sits down with the legendary Scott Swenson of Scott Swenson Creative Development for an incredible interview you won't want to miss. Scott's insights into the world of immersive entertainment and scare design are truly unparalleled. Tune in to hear his stories, wisdom, and creative process that have brought countless nightmares (in the best way!) to life. Don't miss the grand finale! Listen now! 🎧 Listen Here: https://www.youtube.com/@theattractionsgrouppodcast/ 🌐 Our Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/attractionsgroup 🐦 X: @attractions_grp Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theattractionsgrouppodcast/ Rumble Channel: https://rumble.com/AttractionsGroupPodcast LinkedIn Company Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group LinkedIn Attractions Network Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12649603/ Scott Swenson Creative Development: https://www.ScottSwenson.com   #BehindTheScare #ScottSwenson #HauntIndustry #CreativeDevelopment #ThemeParkDesign #HorrorPodcast #AttractionsGroup #PodcastFinale #ImmersiveEntertainment #HauntedAttractions #ScareDesign

🚀 HUGE Attractions Group Podcast Alert! 🚀 He's back! You absolutely need to tune in as hosts Clete Reinberger & David Detling sit down once again with Matt Eckert, President & CEO of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari! We dive into what makes Holiday World unique, how the park continues to innovate, and the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape the guest journey. Whether you’re an industry professional, a theme park enthusiast, or just curious about how the magic happens, this conversation is packed with fascinating perspectives.  What's new? What's coming next? Get the business perspective on running one of the most beloved family-owned theme parks in the world! Click the link to watch and get all the exclusive details! 👇 www.theAttractionsGroup.com www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group https://Attractions.Network www.HolidayWorld.com   #AttractionsGroupPodcast #HolidayWorld #SplashinSafari #MattEckert #ThemeParkNews #AmusementPark #RollerCoasters #WaterPark #ThemeParkIndustry #2025Season #2026Expectations #Podcast #CleteReinberger #DavidDetling #HWFun   🎢 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders in the world of theme parks and attractions.

Prepare for a terrifyingly good time! 🎃 The Attractions Group Podcast Halloween Series, "Behind the Scare," is back with a new episode! Hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger pull back the curtain on one of the Southwest's premier haunted events, Nightfall at Old Tucson. We sit down with Tony Sanders to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce this massive Halloween event in a historic movie studio and western town. From designing the haunts to managing the scares, Tony shares exclusive insights into the business of fear and the magic of Old Tucson's transformation into a world of fright! Whether you're a haunt enthusiast, a fan of Old Tucson, or just curious about how large-scale seasonal attractions come to life, this is a conversation you won't want to miss! What we cover: The unique challenges of setting up a haunt in an existing, historic location. Creative process behind Nightfall's theme, mazes, and scare zones. The business and operations that keep the frights running smoothly. Tony's background and what makes the Old Tucson experience so special. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more industry insights from the world of theme parks and attractions! Get More Attractions Group: www.theAttractionsGroup.com www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group/ www.linkedin.com/groups/12649603/ http://attractions.network Check out Nightfall at Old Tucson: https://oldtucson.com/nightfall-2025   #AttractionsGroupPodcast #BehindTheScare #OldTucson #Nightfall #TonySanders #Halloween #HauntedAttractions #HauntIndustry #ThemeParkPodcast #AttractionsIndustry #SeasonalEvents #TheBusinessOfFear #HalloweenSeries #ThemeParks #ScareZone #BehindTheScenes

Join the Attractions Group Podcast hosts, Clete Reinberger and David Detling, for a fascinating conversation with industry veteran Matt Heller! Matt is the host of the incredibly popular AttractionPros Podcast and the founder of "The Performance Optimist," a resource dedicated to helping leaders create exceptional teams and guest experiences in the attractions industry. In this episode, Clete and David dive into Matt's background and how he went from frontline attractions associate to a thought leader in the Attractions Industry. In addition, they talk about what it takes to build a positive and high-performing culture. They discuss common challenges, leadership best practices, and the power of mindset in delivering world-class service. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting your career in themed entertainment, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you and your team thrive. Tune in to hear them discuss: - The transition from frontline operations to a successful consulting and podcasting career. Key takeaways from interviewing hundreds of attractions industry leaders. Practical steps for improving team engagement and performance. The essential qualities of a Performance Optimist leader.   Useful Links & Resources: AttractionPros Website – your go-to source for insights from top leaders and influencers in the attractions industry (http://attractionpros.com/) Performance Optimist Consulting (Matt Heller’s consulting & leadership development firm) (https://www.performanceoptimist.com) Like this video and subscribe if you want more interviews & leadership insights from the attractions industry Drop a comment: what’s one culture shift you’ve tried (or want to try) in your organization? Share this episode with colleagues or teams who care about building stronger, healthier workplace culture   Subscribe and Connect: Attractions Group Podcast available on most Podcast downloading sites Attractions Group Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.com Connect with Clete Reinberger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clete-reinberger-4a9759257/ Connect with David Detling: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddetling/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group/ Attractions Network: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12649603/   #AttractionsGroupPodcast #AttractionPros #MattHeller #ThePerformanceOptimist #ThemeParks #AttractionsIndustry #Leadership #GuestExperience #Hospitality #TeamCulture #ThemedEntertainment #podcastinterview *Workplace culture*, *attraction industry leadership*, *theme park employee engagement*, *Matt Heller workplace culture*, *Performance Optimist Consulting*, *AttractionPros insights*

Join us on a spine-chilling journey "Behind the Scare"! In this episode, the Attractions Group Podcast welcomes Brewer Lister and Chris Brown from Hersheypark for an exclusive deep dive into the creation of their hit Halloween event, Dark Nights. Learn the secrets of bringing the scares to life at this popular haunt experience. Brewer and Chris pull back the curtain on the design, storytelling, and terrifying details that go into each of Dark Nights' haunted houses and scare zones. From the all-new thrills of Kill 'N Fill Garage and the Path of Shadows: Coven's Curse to the return of fan-favorites, get the inside scoop on what makes Hersheypark a must-visit for haunt fans this fall. Whether you're a seasoned haunt-goer or planning your first trip to Dark Nights, this conversation is packed with exclusive insights you won't hear anywhere else. Tune in and discover how the magic—and the madness—of Hersheypark's Dark Nights is made. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes content from the world of attractions!   #Hersheypark #DarkNights #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #Halloween #HauntedHouse #ScareZone #ThemePark #Haunt #HauntedAttraction #HalloweenEvents #AmusementPark #HauntSeason #Horror #HauntLife #ThemedEntertainment #PA #Podcast #HauntDesign #BehindTheScenes

Step into the fog with The Attractions Group Podcast! 🎃 Hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger are back with another chilling episode of "Behind the Scare," and this time, they're joined by the ultimate expert in all things theme park technology, Matt Miller (America's Theme Park Technologist).   In this spine-tingling conversation, they dive deep into the highly anticipated "Universal's Horror Unleashed" in Las Vegas. From the creative vision to the terrifying technology, Matt pulls back the curtain on what it takes to bring a year-round horror experience to life.   Listen in as they discuss: The innovative tech behind the scares at Universal Horror Unleashed How the new Vegas attraction compares to Universal's legendary Halloween Horror Nights The future of permanent, immersive horror experiences in the attractions industry A behind-the-scenes look at the creative process with a theme park technologist   If you're a fan of theme parks, haunted attractions, or just love a good scare, this is an episode you can't miss! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more industry insights and "Behind the Scare" episodes! #UniversalHorrorUnleashed #LasVegas #ThemeParks #HauntedAttractions #Horror #UniversalStudios #UniversalOrlando #HalloweenHorrorNights #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #MattMiller #ThemeParkTechnologist #ImmersiveEntertainment #Vegas #Podcast

Get ready for some pumpkin-spiced secrets! 🎃 In this episode of the "Behind the Scare" Halloween series, David Detling and Clete Reinberger dive into the world of Dollywood's stunning "Great Pumpkin Luminights." We're excited to welcome special guest Wes Ramey from Dollywood as he takes us on a journey "gourd" behind the scenes. Discover the magic, the artistry, and the incredible effort that goes into creating this beloved fall festival. From the glowing jack-o'-lantern displays to the unique atmosphere, Wes spills the pumpkin seeds on what makes Luminights a can't-miss experience. Whether you're a Dollywood fan, a Halloween enthusiast, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is a treat! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more "Behind the Scare" episodes! In this episode: A look at Dollywood's "Great Pumpkin Luminights" Interview with Wes Ramey of Dollywood Behind-the-scenes insights into creating a major theme park event The magic of fall festivals and Halloween attractions Also available on most podcasting download sites: Apple, Spotify, Podbean, etc. Attractions Group Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/attractionsgroup X (formerly Twitter): @attractions_grp www.theAttractionsGroup.com www.dollywood.com   #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #Dollywood #GreatPumpkinLuminights #Halloween #ThemeParkPodcast #Podcast #HalloweenSeries #GourdBehindTheScenes #Pumpkin #FallFestival #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #WesRamey #DavidDetling #CleteReinberger

Prepare for a terrifyingly good time! The Attractions Group Podcast "Behind the Scare" series is back with a spine-chilling new episode... #5. Hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger sit down with the masters of fright and fun, Chief Creative Officer, Rich Hill and Drew Hunter from Sally Dark Rides. Get ready to go behind the scenes of some of the most iconic dark rides and animatronics in the world! Rich and Drew pull back the curtain on the creative process, sharing their insights on what it takes to design, build, and bring to life the immersive and often spooky attractions that thrill park-goers everywhere. Whether you're a theme park fanatic, a haunt enthusiast, or just curious about the business of fun, this is a conversation you won't want to miss! Find out more about Sally Dark Rides and their incredible work: Website: https://www.sallydarkrides.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SallyDarkRides/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sallydarkrides/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/sallydarkrides   #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #SallyDarkRides #DarkRides #HauntedAttractions #Halloween #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #Animatronics #AttractionsIndustry #RichHill #DrewHunter #DavidDetling #CleteReinberger #Podcast

Tune in to a fascinating conversation on the Attractions Group Podcast with special guest Elizabeth Ringas, President of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE)! Hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger dive deep into the world of theme parks, addressing the recent news of two historic attractions closing: the beloved Leap the Dips at Lakemont Park and the iconic Log Flume at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. These closures lead to a pivotal discussion: Are log flumes a dying breed? And what can the industry do to ensure these classic rides not only survive but thrive? Elizabeth provides an expert perspective on the importance of preserving these historical treasures, the challenges facing parks today, and the innovative ways they can bring new life to older attractions. Also, hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger delve into the recent, somber news of beloved rides closing down. The conversation covers the retirement of the iconic Leap the Dips at Lakemont Park and the closure of the Log Flume at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. These events spark a larger discussion about the fate of classic attractions. #ThemeParks #RollerCoasters #AmusementParks #Attractions #Podcast #AttractionsGroupPodcast #LeapTheDips #LakemontPark #BuschGardensTampaBay #LogFlume #CoasterEnthusiasts #ACE #ThemeParkHistory #RidePreservation #AmusementIndustry #WaterRides #ThrillRides #ElizabethRingas #DavidDetling #CleteReinberger

Prepare for a terrifyingly good time! In Episode 3 of the Attractions Group Podcast, "Behind the Scare," we're diving headfirst into the world of Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights. We're thrilled to be joined by a true expert, Cassie Tucker from the Discover Universal Podcast! She'll be sharing incredible, behind-the-scenes insights into what it takes to create the world's premier Halloween event. Join us as we discuss the incredible detail, storytelling, and artistry that goes into making Halloween Horror Nights a spine-chilling success year after year. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious first-timer, this episode is a can't-miss for anyone who loves theme parks, horror, and a good scare. #HalloweenHorrorNights #HHN #UniversalStudios #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #DiscoverUniversalPodcast #ThemeParks #Horror #Podcast #UniversalOrlando #UniversalStudiosHollywood #Halloween

Join Attractions Group Podcast hosts Clete and David for a special episode of "Behind the Gourd," the sub-series of "Behind the Scare" that focuses on family-friendly fall festivities. In this episode, they sit down with Lauren Crosby, Fourth-Generation Owner and Director of Entertainment and Events at Holiday World, to get an exclusive look at the park's Happy Halloween Weekends. Lauren shares all the details on what's new for this year's event, including the exciting dinosaur theme, the 12-acre Dino Corn Maze Adventure, and the "Dinos Soar in the Sky" drone show. They'll also discuss returning fan favorites like the Trick-or-Treat Trail and Carnival Chaos walkthrough attraction. Whether you're a theme park professional, a haunt enthusiast, or just looking for a fun, not-so-scary Halloween event for the whole family, this episode is a must-listen! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more industry insights and behind-the-scenes conversations! What's in this episode: A chat with Holiday World's Lauren Crosby The scoop on the new dinosaur theme for Happy Halloween Weekends Details on the Dino Corn Maze Adventure and "Dinos Soar in the Sky" drone show Behind-the-scenes look at running a family friendly Halloween event The difference between "Behind the Gourd" and "Behind the Scare"   Special Thanks to our Guest: Lauren Crosby and Holiday World: www.HolidayWorld.com   #AttractionsGroupPodcast #BehindTheGourd #Halloween #HolidayWorld #ThemePark #HappyHalloweenWeekends #FamilyFun #Podcast #HauntSeason #HalloweenEvents #AmusementPark #FamilyFriendly

"Behind the Scare": A Halloween Series by Attractions Group Podcast   🎃 Welcome to Behind the Scare, the ultimate Halloween series from the Attractions Group Podcast! This October, we’re pulling back the curtain on the haunted attraction industry to bring you exclusive stories and spine-chilling insights from the people who live and breathe Halloween. In our very first episode, we sit down with Don Helbig, a true legend in the world of theme parks and the creative mind behind the popular blog, Theme Parks by Don. With decades of experience in the attractions industry, Don shares his incredible behind-the-scenes stories about designing scares, creating immersive worlds, and what it takes to bring a haunted experience to life. Get ready for an unmissable conversation that delves deep into the business of fear and the art of the haunt. Whether you're a Halloween enthusiast, a budding haunt designer, or just love a good ghost story, this series is for you. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications so you don't miss a single episode of Behind the Scare!   Haunted attraction industry, Behind the scenes of Halloween, Theme park Halloween events, The business of fear, Designing scares, Immersive experiences, Haunt industry insights #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #HalloweenSeries #HauntedAttraction #ThemePark #DonHelbig #ThemeParksByDon #Halloween #HauntDesign #HauntedHouse #ScareZone #AttractionsIndustry #GhostStories #HauntedHalloween #ThemeParkPodcast

Join us on the Attractions Group Podcast for an exclusive interview with Matt Miller, a true visionary in the themed entertainment industry! 🎢 Previously a leader at Orlando Informer, Matt is now the Director of Creative Strategy & Portfolio at Innovated Studios, where he continues to shape the future of theme parks. In this episode, Matt breaks down the fascinating role of a "Theme Park Technologist," revealing what it takes to be at the intersection of technology and immersive storytelling. We'll explore the near-future direction of technology in the attractions industry, from advanced ride systems to innovative guest experiences. Plus, hosts Clete and David dive into a compelling discussion about the possibility of night operations at water parks. 🌊 Could extended hours and unique nighttime events enhance guest interest and create unforgettable experiences? Find out as we weigh the pros, cons, and potential for this exciting idea. Don't miss this deep dive into the business of fun and the technology that makes the magic happen!   #ThemeParkTechnologist #ThemeParkNews #InnovatedStudios #OrlandoInformer #AttractionsGroupPodcast #Podcast #ThemeParks #Innovations #Technology #WaterParks #NightOperations #AmusementIndustry #MattMiller #GuestExperience #UniversalStudios #DisneyWorld

We’re back with Season 5 of the Attractions Group Podcast! To kick things off, we dive into Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia — a park with a unique mix of thrills, family fun, and immersive experiences. In this episode, we cover:- Six Flags spending cuts- What makes Wild Adventures stand out in the regional park landscape- The park’s blend of rides, animals, and entertainment- Insights into how parks like Wild Adventures balance guest experience, operations, and growth- United Parks and Entertainment sees raising attendance! If you’re a theme park employee, industry pro, or passionate fan, you won’t want to miss this fresh start to our new season. 📌 Subscribe to stay tuned all season long for more stories, insights, and conversations from the world of themed entertainment!   #themeparks #WildAdventures #georgiathemeparks#AttractionsGroupPodcast #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #SeaWorld #SixFlags #BehindTheScare #HauntedAttractions #ThemeParkPodcast #CleteReinberger #DavidDetling #AttractionsIndustry #Podcast #SeasonFinale #BusinessOfFun #ThemeParkPodcast #Season5 #AttractionsIndustry #AttractionsGroupPodcast

In the Season 4 finale of the Attractions Group Podcast, hosts Clete Reinberger and David Detling are wrapping up an incredible season and looking ahead to the future! This week, we dive into the latest and greatest in the theme park world, including: - New SeaWorld Parks: What's on the horizon for SeaWorld? Clete and David discuss the company's new ventures and what it means for the industry and guests. - Six Flags Q2 Report: The guys break down the latest financial news from Six Flags, offering their expert analysis on the numbers and what they reveal about the state of the company. - "Behind the Scare": Get a sneak peek into the upcoming "Behind the Scare" series, a new project from The Attractions Group that will take you into the terrifying world of haunted attractions. Season 5 Teaser: Clete and David share exciting details about what listeners can expect from Season 5, teasing new segments, special guests, and even more in-depth industry analysis. Don't miss this jam-packed episode as they close out Season 4 and set the stage for an even bigger and better Season 5! #AttractionsGroupPodcast #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #SeaWorld #SixFlags #BehindTheScare #HauntedAttractions #ThemeParkPodcast #CleteReinberger #DavidDetling #AttractionsIndustry #Podcast #SeasonFinale #BusinessOfFun

Summer Replay Series. From Season 2, Episode 43 (2023)

This week on the Attractions Group Podcast, David and Clete are back! Clete just returned from an A detailed recap of Clete's 15-park East Coast trip Reviews of coasters and attractions at Six Flags, Kings Dominion, Busch Gardens, and more! Tips for planning a multi-park theme park road trip The best and worst of the "Slammer" experience Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more theme park content every week!   Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/attractionsgroupX: https://x.com/attractions_grp   #AttractionsGroupPodcast #ThemeParkPodcast #CoasterEnthusiast #ThemeParks #EastCoastSlammer #RollerCoasters #AmusementPark #SixFlags #KingsDominion #BuschGardens #CedarFair #Hersheypark #Knoebels #SixFlagsGreatAdventure #TripReport #ThemeParkTrip #RoadTrip #CoasterTrip #ThemeParkLife #PodcastEpisode

Get ready to elevate your guest experience! This is your chance to catch the replay of our dynamic webinar from The Attractions Group, featuring Dan Cockerell. In "Delivering World-Class Experiences with Consistency," Dan, a seasoned former Disney World Vice President, unpacks his proven strategies for consistently creating unforgettable moments and exceptional service. Whether you're an attractions industry professional, a hospitality leader, or simply passionate about customer satisfaction, this podcast is a must-listen. You'll gain actionable takeaways to transform your service delivery, including how to: Set the standard for excellence and maintain brand consistency. Empower your team to deliver guest delight time and time again. Overcome operational hurdles in maintaining high-quality service. Cultivate a culture of service excellence that resonates with every visitor. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's most respected voices! Tune in and revolutionize your approach to world-class experiences. #GuestExperience #CustomerService #AttractionsIndustry #Hospitality #Leadership #ServiceExcellence #DanCockerell #DisneyLeadership #WebinarReplay #TheAttractionsGroup About Dan Cockerell: Dan Cockerell spent 26 years with The Walt Disney Company, culminating in his role as Vice President of Magic Kingdom Park. He is a highly sought-after speaker and consultant, known for his expertise in leadership, operations, and guest experience. About The Attractions Group: The Attractions Group is a leading resource for professionals in the attractions industry, providing valuable insights, networking opportunities, and educational content.

Step back to 2023 for a truly insightful conversation on the Attractions Group Podcast! In this compelling episode, former SeaWorld CEO Joel Manby dives deep into the principles of his powerful book, "Love Works: Seven Timeless Principles for Effective Leaders." Join hosts Ryan Suhr, Don Helbig (David Detling in the "third chair") as they unpack Joel Manby's unique leadership philosophy. Discover how applying love-based leadership transformed corporate culture and drove success not only at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment but also at Herschend Family Entertainment. This interview goes beyond typical business talk, exploring how empathy, humility, and genuine care for employees and customers can lead to remarkable results in any industry, especially the theme park and attractions industry. Whether you're a leader, an aspiring professional, or simply interested in a more human approach to business, Manby's insights are invaluable. In this episode, you'll learn about:- The core tenets of "Love Works" and how they apply in real-world business scenarios.- Joel Manby's experiences leading major entertainment companies like SeaWorld and Herschend.- Practical strategies for fostering a positive and productive work environment.- The surprising power of "love" as a strategic advantage in competitive markets.- Behind-the-scenes perspectives from a top attractions industry executive. Don't miss this engaging and inspiring discussion that proves leadership can be both effective and deeply compassionate. #JoelManby #LoveWorks #SeaWorld #AttractionsGroupPodcast #Leadership #BusinessPodcast #ThemeParks #HerschendFamilyEntertainment #CorporateCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #InspirationalLeadership #ManagementTips #AttractionsIndustry #PodcastInterview #BusinessStrategy #EntertainmentIndustry #FormerCEO #LoveBasedLeadership #RyanSuhr #DonHelbig #DavidDetling #ParksAndRec #AmusementParks #BusinessBooks #ExecutiveInsights

Get ready for a double dose of thrill and theme park insight! In this week's episode of The Attractions Group Podcast, hosts Clete Reinberger and David Detling dive deep into the exciting world of roller coasters. First up, they break down Legoland's highly anticipated new indoor roller coaster, discussing all the details revealed about this groundbreaking attraction set to open in 2026. Then, Clete shares his epic plans for an upcoming multi-park rollercoaster road trip, offering a sneak peek into the parks he'll be conquering and the coasters he's most excited to ride! Whether you're a seasoned coaster enthusiast, a theme park industry professional, or just love staying updated on the latest in attractions, Clete and David bring their expert perspective and passion to every discussion. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, industry analysis, and a whole lot of roller coaster talk! #AttractionsGroupPodcast #Legoland #NewCoaster #RollerCoaster #ThemePark #AmusementPark #CoasterEnthusiast #RoadTrip #ThrillRides #LegolandFlorida #AttractionsIndustry #Podcast #YoutubePodcast #ThemeParkNews #CoasterLife